STGOD 4 Game Thread

[frigidmagi]

We are aware. The Rape of Terra was something... beyond awful. I am glad that the Machines are no longer a threat. We believe that the terraforming of the Sixtra homeworld was, at least initially, a mistake. A horrible mistake, but without the evil that is the voluntary destruction of a world. The deeds of the Overseer were as evil as those commited by the Masters so long ago. And the Sixtra, having suffered that kind of evil have lost most of their... hate towards your species after the destruction of Earth. They will not like you, but they will not turn against you unless they turn against them before AND they will not hamper the efforts of those allied with the Confederation. Such are the advantages of dealing with a culture that values obedience and loyalty over anything else" said the Councilor that after thinking briefly continued. "Probably, an exchange producing mutual benefit will be enough to satisfy them. While there are military secrets that I am not allowed to disclose until an agreement with your nation is signed, there are two fields that our researchers have been unable to master in spite of their best efforts: energy shielding and an experimental power source. We believe that if we can learn from your own technicians, we will be able to improve... at least in the shielding area."

After seeing the President of the Union out and on his way, the Lord Protector broke into a ground eating jog hurrying to meet the latiest first contact. The Men-at-Arms broke out into a trot to keep up, radioing ahead to expand the security perimeter. Sir Brain Mattews jogged aloneside his cousin breifing him.

"Alright it seems to be a multi-specis Confederation, they call themselves the White Sun Condferation. Seems to be lot of those around these days huh... Well the rep in question is speaking to Uncle Andersen they discussed quite a bit. It seems that a couple of the specis in question have a bit of a bloodfued with Terrans due to the mistaken terraforming of their homeworld. The only reason they're talking to us is the Ousters, seems they're real close to Ouster space and think they are next on the hit list. Since we're the most hard core anti-Hajr around, they came to talk to us, despite being Terran scum ourselves. The guy we're talking to is real polite however. Real Civilized Sapient." He said

"Anything else I should know?" Lord Protector Sir Joshua Mattews asked.

"Well he's about 8ft tall and is a quaduped." Came the smirking answer.

"Good God! We going to need to design some chairs for that. Make a note to send heat pads with the Ambassador we end up sending, he'll get neck cramps."

A few elevator rides and sprints down long halls later they arrived at the room. Just in time to hear the aliens last words. The Lord Protector strigthen himself out and storde in with his Men-at-Arms coming in behind.

"Greeting's Councilor, please forgive my inability to greet you personally. I am the Lord Protector. I trust my uncle has been informative. I understand you wish to join the alliance? Have the terms of the alliance been explained to your satifaction? Do you require drink or substance? This may take some time. " The Lord Protector said has he moved up to the alien to stand beside Fleet Admiral Andersen.

[Stormbringer]

[NORINCO Shipyards, New Beijing, former PIR]

Admiral Alistair Von Bek sat in his office, staring through the cry-glass window at the verdant jewel of the New Beijing. Soft classical music played in the background as he read the lastest Dispatch. It had been a month and half since Red Star was begun and now sitting in his office he could bask in the glow of accomplishment, and perhaps reap the rewards of success as well.

It had been his plan and his execution that had lead to the stunning Asgard victory. Now he was the man in charge of the entire PIR in the Emperor's name and Von Bek was an honest enough man to admit the thrill such power gave him. And now he was turning his able hands towards the goal of turning the PIR into a productive feifdom. The occupation itself had been remarkably easy, with the exception of a few, possibly Ouster related incidents things had been quiet. And by now the local populace was downright welcoming; that they were being bribed by things like prolong and an increase in wages and oppurtunities didn't hurt in the least.

Von Bek turned and began to gaze at the yards themselves. The cavernous yards themselves were still empty as the techs, nearly invisisble against the enormous frames, scurried to keep the conversions. One of a sever projects that were earning him praise.

Among the most notable praises had come from the latest Dispatch itself. Using the well known Nelson by-line, at least one to the Space Lords had seen fit to publically praise him and his plan for Red Star. A b ig boost to his career and a feather in his cap.

Now if only the peerage is more than rumor...

He smiled. At the very least they had seen fit to name a light cruiser soon to commision for him. Idly he mused about the possibility it would be assigned to him. It was a pleasant diversion between the mountains of paperwork.

[Marcao]

Veithan Space
Reunion
Oceanside Retreat

The time since Yrt’s arrival to Reunion and the Oceanside retreat which was his new home had been dominated by work. In the estimation of Natalya, Yrt was certainly a quick learner but he still fell too readily into the traps she laid before him. It was predictable; Yrt was no Veithan and as such did not have a Veithan’s training in these matters. He still believed that his psychic might could be best utilized in full frontal assaults, and was only know understanding the subtleties of his gifts. It was slow work, but she was slowly but surely shaping him into what he had been born to be. She was aware at this point of the implants that resided within his skull, but they had only awakened what had already resided there. Yrt was strong, in her estimation he was at least a p3 and more than likely a p2. He was not a prime, but he was certainly a mind to be respected by all his equals and certainly his inferiors. All that it needed was the proper training; thankfully Yrt was a quick learner.

Nonetheless, he was far less aware of his own capabilities than those that she was used to work with. As a result, their schedule was even more brutal than normal. Yrt had to not only learn to control his mind, but he had to harness it and learn what he could and could not do. It had been their second morning together; that she had gone out of her way to point out that some of his perceptions about his mind or strength was inaccurate.

~I am pleased with your understanding so far about your potential Yrt, but that potential has to be harnessed and I still feel that you have some misperceptions about your might and your mind. The direct approach is not always the proper one, it is still something that I feel you favoring and thus, it is something that you must understand.~

With her thoughts exchanged to those of Yrt, her eyes narrowed slightly and she sought to enter Yrt’s mind. His defenses responded of course, a bit more quickly than she had given him credit. Pleasure rippled in a corner of her mind, feeling the wall that Yrt offered as his defense. Yrt was expecting a single powerful blow, like she had been using throughout the first day to hammer home his limitations. His defenses had gotten better against such straight forward clashes, so instead of using a singular strike she broke her attack into a dozen or so spread out attacks. Yrt struggle valiantly, but his wall was overwhelmed. Her mind penetrating his lightly, her following mental whisper laced with amusement.

~As you can see, there are times when being a bit more creative can be far more advantageous. Your defenses have to take this into account Yrt. As you grow to understand yourself, your defenses shall grow in both scope and complexity. I have a more powerful mind, but that does not mean that you cannot adequately defend yourself. Even if you could not match me, you could delay, and in doing so gain enough time to either seek another advantage or withdraw. Now, let me show you what your new task shall be…~

A soft smile appeared on her lips as her mind curled against the edges of Yrt’s. All she needed was time, and when she was done with Yrt he would be as close to fulfilling himself as he could be. All the while, she would gain the necessary insights to his capabilities and ideologies. In the end, she would know Yrt better than anyone else and through that knowledge, her people’s interests would be protected.

[Murazor]

"Greeting's Councilor, please forgive my inability to greet you personally. I am the Lord Protector. I trust my uncle has been informative. I understand you wish to join the alliance? Have the terms of the alliance been explained to your satifaction? Do you require drink or substance? This may take some time. " The Lord Protector said has he moved up to the alien to stand beside Fleet Admiral Andersen.

"Your uncle has been very informative, Lord Protector Joshua. I thank your courtesy, but I do not require anything, currently. My... suit will provide me with everything I need to survive in this environment and it will prevent the carbon-sulphur based biochemistry of my species from being an unfortunate problem. Its long-life batteries will keep a breathable atmosphere for a long time." said the Ethereal bowing his torso in a respectful gesture to greet the leader of the United Protectorates.

"About your other questions, yes to both. My nation believes that joining the Alliance is our best hope and the terms of the alliance have been explained to my complete satisfaction. As I was telling your uncle, there might be some initial problems, but is my belief that they can be solved in short order"

[Murazor]

"Acknowledged, Terextos. You may launch your shuttle at any time. A fighter escort has been arranged for you and the diplomatic representative is waiting."

Moments later, a shuttle uncoupled from the bulk of the Terextos and started its descent escorted by Nashtar fighters. Following the instructions provided by the fighters and Nashtar Control, the shuttle reached the landing pad where the human diplomat awaited their arrival.

An Ethereal maneuvered with some effort his way out of the small shuttle and walked towards the only human in sight which didn't look as military.

"I suppose that you are the Nashtarian diplomatic representative. My name is Dertorian and I have been appointed by my government as representative of the White Sun Confederation during this round of discussion with your nation."

[Rogue 9]

Embassy District shuttle port, Nashtar

[OOC: The diplomat out to greet you is a Zambaran, actually. Definitely not human. ]

The State Department official walked towards the Ethereal, his two secondary arms spread wide while his right primary reached out for a human handshake -- the State Department had been unable to determine the proper greeting gestures for the White Sun confederacy, so they went with this -- as his short black fur flattened and smoothed in a way that to his species indicated contentment. "Welcome to Nashtar, Ambassador. I trust you will enjoy your stay." He looked the Ethereal over, noting the environment suit. "Is there any special accommodation you require before we get to business? If you need anything that we can arrange as far as quarters, it is yours."

[Alyrium Denryle]

"Excellant. Unless anyone else has something they wish to discuss I'm afraid there is yet another specis that requires a meeting with me."

"My my you are popular today, I will go and relay the news to my government.

It was a pleasure meeting you Mr. President, I look forward to speking with you in the future"

He took a bow and left the room, beaming with happiness.

"Likewise, I will go. I intend to return to Avea as soon as possible. It was nice meeting you, Mr. Lord Protector and Mr. President."

Ambassador natrix looked up slightly "Hmm.. Mr. President... I like the sound of that. It was a pleasure meeting ou as well Mr. President"

[frigidmagi]

"About your other questions, yes to both. My nation believes that joining the Alliance is our best hope and the terms of the alliance have been explained to my complete satisfaction. As I was telling your uncle, there might be some initial problems, but is my belief that they can be solved in short order"

"Yes, I understand there is some internal dispute you have about joining the alliance. If there is anything we can do to help, please let us know. I am told you and my uncle were discussing a tech trade of some type?"

[consequences]

OOC: Frigidmagi, I'm assuming we can skip the fifteen additional rounds of preliminaries too set up and confirm the meeting in the proper diplomatic manner
IC:
United Protectorates Homeworld

Lord Ambassador McSweeney entered the arranged meeting alone, in a display of implied trust, and calculated arrogance.

[frigidmagi]

OOC: Frigidmagi, I'm assuming we can skip the fifteen additional rounds of preliminaries too set up and confirm the meeting in the proper diplomatic manner
IC:
United Protectorates Homeworld

Lord Ambassador McSweeney entered the arranged meeting alone, in a display of implied trust, and calculated arrogance.

OOC: Yeah that works for me.

Diplomat attache Rosenburg smiled at Lord McSweeney. He idealy considered for a moment the differences between the Shi and the UP. The Lord Protector would shoot himself before giving a House member uncontroled access to a forgein state. McSweeney was also a bit of a stand out in that most people had expected the Shi ambassador to be Japanese in desent. However study had shown that they were a mixed bag, much like the Up itself.

The only member of the "Noble" class in the relativity new dilopmat corp was the Lord Protector's cousin, who was a Mattew. Rosenburg was himself a minority, being one of the few ambassadors not knighted because of some heroic deeds. Instead of being former police, firemen or military, he was a former member of the Mattews staff. He stood and gave a bow to the entering Lord.

"Good Afternoon, Lord McSweeney. Is there anything I can get you before we begin? Tea perhaps? Please make yourself comfortable."

[consequences]

OOC: Frigidmagi, I'm assuming we can skip the fifteen additional rounds of preliminaries too set up and confirm the meeting in the proper diplomatic manner
IC:
United Protectorates Homeworld

Lord Ambassador McSweeney entered the arranged meeting alone, in a display of implied trust, and calculated arrogance.

OOC: Yeah that works for me.

Diplomat attache Rosenburg smiled at Lord McSweeney. He idealy considered for a moment the differences between the Shi and the UP. The Lord Protector would shoot himself before giving a House member uncontroled access to a forgein state. McSweeney was also a bit of a stand out in that most people had expected the Shi ambassador to be Japanese in desent. However study had shown that they were a mixed bag, much like the Up itself.

The only member of the "Noble" class in the relativity new dilopmat corp was the Lord Protector's cousin, who was a Mattew. Rosenburg was himself a minority, being one of the few ambassadors not knighted because of some heroic deeds. Instead of being former police, firemen or military, he was a former member of the Mattews staff. He stood and gave a bow to the entering Lord.

"Good Afternoon, Lord McSweeney. Is there anything I can get you before we begin? Tea perhaps? Please make yourself comfortable."

"Tea would be most appreciated, Green Tea by preference." he said, returning the bow before taking a seat.

[frigidmagi]

"Tea would be most appreciated, Green Tea by preference." he said, returning the bow before taking a seat.

Rosenburg like any good UP citizen had scouted out his guest's prefered refreshments before hand. He gave Lord McSweeney time to sample his tea and seat himself comfortably.
"Lord McSweeney, thank you for seeing me. As you know the United Protectrates has suffered many cival wars in it's past. Because of these wars, laws have been made. Some of these laws deal with the Lord Protector and his heirs. The creation of his heirs, point of fact. In short the Protector must marry and be faithful to the spouse and the spouse in question must be faithful has well. But I wonder from the point. Due to the commonality of interest between our powers and the desire for closer ties, we would ask that a spouse be found for the Lord Protector from amoung your noblity. Is this possible?"

[Marcao]

[VNN] Veithan News Network

Monacoran citizens wounded during the Mechanoid assault of Earth return home

During the so called “rape of terra” millions of residents where injured or killed and the Monacoran planetary infrastructure was pushed to its limit. In order to assist the wounded and dying, Veithan hospital ships shuttled the worst cases back to Veithan space in order so that they could be treated free of charge in Veithan medical facilities. Over time Veithan medical science and her doctors have done all they can to heal the wounds but physical and mental of their patients. Starting today, the first batch of Monacoran citizens will be returned to their changed home. According to documents obtained by VNN, roughly three quarters of all wounded that managed to reach Veithan facilities managed to recover adequately from their wounds. Of the remaining twenty five percent, ten percent made partial recoveries while the remaining fifteen percent perished from their injuries. The bodies of those that did not survive will be returned to Monacora alongside the survivors, a bittersweet reminder of the tragic events that transpired on Earth.

Magdalena Hyrt memorial glade finished

The Magdalena Hyrt memorial glade which houses the body of the slain former secretary of state has been completed. The glade was built to commemorate the life and death of the woman, whose death became the rallying call for Veithan involvement against the forces of the Mechanoids. The five acre glade is dominated by a modest sized statue of Magdalena in the center of the glade, surrounded by some of her favorite flora both from Veitha III and Earth itself, as well as a series of small water ways which surround the glade. The opening ceremonies marking the opening of the glade to the public are scheduled to occur in two days.

Crown Prince Jorm Update

Crown Prince Jorm son of the Gladsheim Empress Elena has been enjoying the hospitality of the Veithan government since his arrival to Veitha III. The prince has chosen to remain in the planet, apparently willing to learn more about his nation’s allies. The Veithan government has not hidden the fact that it looks upon the crown prince favorably, inviting him to a myriad of events ranging from political to cultural. Nonetheless, the crown prince seems to have taken Veithan life in stride. Unsurprisingly, security around the prince is considerable both from his own Gladsheim escorts and Veithan based security. Although representatives of the Veithan military were unavailable for comment, it is believed that the Crown Prince has attracted “specialized” elements in order to guarantee his safety. The Crown Prince’s presence anywhere has caused quite a stir, and various local and foreign news services have attempted to keep on top of his movements. How successful they have been remains in doubt, as the Crown Prince has proven quite adept at keeping one step ahead of most media outlets. The future of the Crown Prince in Veitha III remains to be seen, although it will certainly be an interesting one.

Veithan economy continues on its path, fiefdoms broaden trade relations

The Veithan economy continues on its present course maintaining the gains that it has garnered over the last two quarters. The opening of Manasan and Myheri markets as well as the announcement of a Kalderi treaty has continued to push the Veithan economy in its expansion. Zenith technologies alongside a dozen over major Veithan manufactures and companies have posted significant profits and expectations for the future that suggest that their expansion should continue for some time. With the widening of ties between the Veithan empire and the Manasan, Myheri and Kalderi star nations local fiefdoms in the edges of Veithan space have begun to attempt to broaden economic ties between themselves and the empire. While some analysts believed that this was the new trend, a well known professor of interstellar economics in the University of Caille had this to say. “With the Veithan empire establishing productive and profitable ties with the Myheri and Manasa and recently with the Kalderi star nations, it is possible that the situation may have become self-sustaining. The local fiefdoms at this point may be realizing that the benefits of an alliance with us far outweigh any potential detriments.” The professor’s comments clashed with those of the military, a senior Veithan military officer had this to say. “The local fiefdoms understand that by widening economic ties with the Empire, they make an invasion of their territories from a local matter into an international one. It makes a lot of sense, economically and militarily.”

The mystery of Sinq Liaison

The Sinq Liaison system has always been shrouded in mystery, this mostly in part to its role as a central location for the Veithan Naval forces to test their weapons, ships and tactics. As of late however, the mystery has been compounded by various anomalous hyperspace signatures emanating from within the system. The hyperspace signatures are unlike any previously utilized by the Veithan Empire, causing a great deal of theories to be thrown around. The Veithan navy has total control over the system, and has intercepted every attempt by VNN to move close enough to the system to acquire more detailed readings. When approached with this information, the Veithan secretary of defense had this to say. "The system of Sinq Liaison has been under the control of the Veithan armed forces for decades. The signatures which have been detected are most likely a direct result of the latest generation of Veithan hyperspace drives. I am unable to offer more details at this time.”

[frigidmagi]

Mulaya III

Ambassador Sir Warren stepped off from his landing shuttle. The Vethians had kindly given them a compound next to the ocean, a very lovly view. Now to convince everyone else.

"It's... Above ground..." Said one of his aides.

"Well it's not like it'll fall over in a wind or anything. Besides look we're next to the ocean. We can learn how to swim now." Sir Warren responed.

[Murazor]

"Yes, I understand there is some internal dispute you have about joining the alliance. If there is anything we can do to help, please let us know. I am told you and my uncle were discussing a tech trade of some type?"

"You have been told correctly. In order to calm down our domestic dissidents and to gain your esteem, we were willing to offer you military technology. However, as your uncle has said that you won't demand a prize from an ally, we concluded after some discussion that a mutually beneficious technology exchange will be enough to reach both objectives. In exchange for the advice and help of your technicians in order to improve our energy shielding technology, we would gladly offer you a working model of a realspace FTL missile and anything you might need in order to produce your own."

[Murazor]

Embassy District shuttle port, Nashtar

"Hopefully my stay will make it possible a greater... understanding? I fear that I am not completely familiar with the complexity of your language. A greater understanding among our nations, I mean. In answer to your question, my suit is a complete life-support unit. I won't need anything for as long as its energy reserves last and they will last for several of your days." The Ethereal said while doubtfully reaching out his own right arm for a handshake. "Handshake... Yes, I remember now. My species lacks greeting gestures that you would be able to imitate and I think that handshaking will suffice and it will be less uncomfortable for my human hosts. As soon as you are ready, I will be ready and eager to start our negotiations."

[Marcao]

Veithan Space
Mulaya III

The arrival of the United Protectorates ambassador had been expected for quite sometime. It was unfortunate that the occupation of Ixa`gal had caused a delay in the forming of such basic ties between the Empire and the U.P. Eventhough the U.P had played a key role in the occupation, they were perceived by many within and outside the government as having been secondary players, performing their part primarily out of duty for their alliance and an optimistic hope that the people of the former Covenant of God could improve their lot with the assistance of the alliance forces. With the Arcane Empire no longer a factor, many people both within the government decided that it would be unwise and foolish to continue the current diplomatic situation with the U.P. As such, steps were taken to ask the U.P to send an ambassador to the Empire.

The U.P ambassador was greeted by a moderate sized Veithan delegation as he stepped off from his shuttle, pleasantries exchanged as the Veithans escorted their U.P guests to the compound which had been chosen for them. The Veithans were well aware of the living style of the U.P and wished to grant them somehting more unusual and hopefully more appealing than they expected. The U.P compound was next to the ocean, placed in such an angle as to provide the most stunning views during the day.

The U.P personnel were given time to time to get used to their new surroundings. A single Veithan representative remaining behind long enough to give one of Sir Warren’s aides a message.

“The secretary of state would appreciate an opportunity to meet with ambassador warren at his earliest convenience. Whenever Sir Warren chooses the meeting to take place, please get back to use through the usual channels. The secretary of state will remain in Mulaya III for the next eight and half days, so he has until then to choose what is the best time for him. Thank you, and enjoy your stay.”

The Veithan bowed slightly, his eyes making sure that his message was received before he nodded and turned on his heels. His steps carrying him towards the exit of the compound and once there, to a waiting vehicle. He expected that Sir Warren would choose a time frame between 24-72 hours. Anytime after that would be perceived as rude. Their nations did not have to continue in their divergent diplomatic paths, the Veithans were offering the U.P a chance to stabilize relations and see where that path led. The Empire was willing to take the first step and it had, now it was up to the U.P to take the second.

[Marcao]

Veithan Space
Veitha III

The Crown Prince had proven to be far more slippery than originally predicted and had on no less than four occasions managed to slip past his Veithan security detail. The realization was met with mild irritation and a renewed dedication to their cause. The orders to keep an eye on Jorm had come from the Intelligence Director himself, and that by itself was more than a clear signal of where the Veithan government stood. The Crown Prince was important to the scheme of things, and the last thing the Veithan government needed was an assassination attempt upon Jorm’s life like had occurred to the Arcanist representative in Earth.

As time progressed however, it became far more difficult for Jorm to sneak past his unseen benefactors. The Gladshiem made stealth suit he had worn on one occasion was a known quantity, and the Veithans had learned by now how to deal with its appearance. Their orders were to keep an eye upon him and intervene should it become necessary. On more than one occasion, one of the members shadowing Jorm had used their natural gifts to sway the minds of some of the more zealous reporters away as well as dozens of other little minute interventions. Like unseen guardian angels, they made sure that Jorm’s stay in Veitha III was a relatively pleasant one.

It was not surprising to learn of course, that the Veithans were aware of the Crown Prince’s current love affair with a Veithan citizen. The knowledge of this development was far too important to leave untouched, the information passed along to their control. The chosen of Jorm was given a very thorough background check, as the Empire sought to make sure that it was well on top of the developing situation. Jorm could do what he wished as long as consent was involved, The Empire was relatively liberal in such matters. If Dachlan enjoyed in Jorm’s company then so be it, it was not their place to intervene at that time. Nonetheless, Dachlan was discretely surveyed and kept tabs on as well. It was only prudent. Of course, the question that dominated the minds of many Veithans aware of the situation was predictable. Did Dachlan know that Jorm was the Crown Prince of Gladsheim? It hardly seemed possible that he could not.

It was the incident during the restaurant that answered that question definitively, Jorm’s reaction to the appearance of photographer’s sealing the deal in the minds of the Veithan watchers. Ah, so Dachlan did not know. Their retreat from the restaurant was sudden, and the Veithan watchers made sure to hinder any attempts by the media to catch up to them. They were hardly necessary, Jorm moved through the streets of the capital as if born to them. A thin smile appeared on the lips of the Veithan watchers as Jorm made it to his final destination.

~Fifty murans that the jig is up and Dachlan will be told the truth.~

~Fifty murans? That is not a bet and you know it. Fifty murans that Dachlan will probably still choose to stay by Jorm’s side.~

~I doubt it. You are on. What makes you so sure?~

~Unlike you, I have been in love with someone other than my work.~

~I resent that.~

~I am sure you do, but we both know it’s true. Now, all we have to do is wait and see.~

~Yes. It is all a matter of time now.~

[frigidmagi]

“The secretary of state would appreciate an opportunity to meet with ambassador warren at his earliest convenience. Whenever Sir Warren chooses the meeting to take place, please get back to use through the usual channels. The secretary of state will remain in Mulaya III for the next eight and half days, so he has until then to choose what is the best time for him. Thank you, and enjoy your stay.”

Sir Warren was watching the staff attempting to swim. Well some of the staff, many were attempting to do their jobs without stealing looks at the all to thin walls. The off duties ones seem to prefer being outside. Swimming was a lost art amoung the non-military members of the UP. Most people ragarded water has a bathing and drinking resource only. Sir Warren of course could swim quite well due to his proir service. But at the moment was enjoying the feel of sand between his toes.

When the message arrived, Warren did the math in his head.

"Tell the secretary that I can meet him in 6 hours if he would like. I better get parpared, round everybody up we need for the meeting." He said turning ro go inside.

[frigidmagi]

"You have been told correctly. In order to calm down our domestic dissidents and to gain your esteem, we were willing to offer you military technology. However, as your uncle has said that you won't demand a prize from an ally, we concluded after some discussion that a mutually beneficious technology exchange will be enough to reach both objectives. In exchange for the advice and help of your technicians in order to improve our energy shielding technology, we would gladly offer you a working model of a realspace FTL missile and anything you might need in order to produce your own."

"Ah Good, then. Seems like all is in order. Is there anything else your peoples will require from us? I have no problems having an agreement between our two powers set up here and now. I also invite you into the alliance providing that the Nastar Republic or the Altantians don't object."

[Dahak]

Veithan Space
Veitha III

HIMS Ragnarok and her consorts swallowed out in the approved entry zones for Veithan space.
"Veithan space control, this is Admiral Andreassen, requesting permission to come in-system."

Veithan space control went through the routine, and after a short delay, the small group of ships was allowed to proceed to Veitha III's orbital.
The Ragnarok accelerated along the inbound vector, projecting an aura of power and might, yet elegant and graceful. It was her first real deployment, even if it was just as a glorified taxi.

When she finally settled in her orbit around Veitha III, she already has been buried in requests for a guided tour by Veithan military.
It was cleared with the Admiralty, and Admiral Andreassen extended an invitation for a guided tour and dinner for a selected group of Veithan representatives.

***

<<Your Highness,>> Colonel Trylings notified him over dinner, <<our transportation has arrived.>>
"Please, use your voice. It's rather impolite towards Dachlan," Jorm said.
Colonel Trylings let out a heavy sigh. He did it rather frequently in the last days.
"Very well, your Highness. As I was saying, your transportation has arrived. The Admiral is doing some meetings with local military, but we should be leaving Veithan space for Gladsheim within the next day."
Crown Prince Jorm glumly looked towards the smaller man sitting besides him at the dinner table. He looked even glummer, if that was possible.
He was surprised both managed to survive the last hours and days. But somehow they managed to come to terms with each other.
After he had left Dachlan to his own thoughts on that historic evening, both went through all kinds of emotional states. The Prince had managed to completely trash his room in frustration and anguish, while young Dachlan did the exact same to his room. It took all his composure to talk sense into the prince again, and made Seargant Helström keep an eye out for young Dachlan and keep him from damaging the suite any further.

After that, he had to watch endless crying, screaming, whining. At one point he was seriously considering killing them both and be done with it (The following counselling session with Consensus didn't help his mood in the slightest...).
And somehow, he wasn't really sure how and when, they were the happy couple again. He knew he should have been thankful for it. Though after they wouldn't keep their hands of each other for even the slightest periods of time, he thought that maybe, maybe, the crying and whining was better, after all...

It was a clear sign that having relationships in this...barbaric way, without Consensus guiding you, and without Datanet no less, was a bad idea. But it wasn't his decision to make, and he had to admit, the Crown Prince seemed to be happy with him...

And now they soon were to be brought to his mother. Something he was looking forward to. Empress Elana could be...touchy, especially in regards to her family. The maker help this little, unsuspecting Veithan should she start to consider him family...

***

"You know," Dachlan pouted, "this wouldn't've been happening if you told me earlier."
"h fuck," he sighed. Again. "I'm sorry. Weren't we over this yet? I told you, I love you."
"Yeah." He looked out of the window. "But still... and why do we have to do this travel thing? I don't want to, really."
"Mother has requested it. One doesn't deny requests to my mother. I know her, and if we refused, she possibly had sent down a full detachment of marines just to drag us home. Think positive. She wants to meet you." He grinned.
"Wouldn't look to pretty, huh?"
"No. Marines are seriously no-nonsense." He snickered as Colonel Trylings harumphed.
"When we're leaving?"
"I guess around noonish tomorrow. But I have another thought. And please don't kill me."
"What?" Dachlan eyed him suspicously.
"I still owe your press an apology. I've been a bit too...overprotective towards you, and wasn't doing them justice. I was thinking to allow for a personal interview. Here. With you and me."
"What?!" he nearly choked on his wine.
"They won't hurt you, I promise. But I would feel better... I don't like to leave such misunderstandings. After all these many things Veithans have done for me..."
Dachlan eyed him for a while longer, and saw the desire for his asent in the eyes. "Oh well... I don't have to like it, have I?"
"No," Jorm beamed and immediately had his Chief of Staff arrange for this interview.

[frigidmagi]

Amarr System

Jordan stared out at military base Dominion, seeing it with new eyes. He had worked here all his live. A slave to the officer family which was stationed here. About a month and a half a ago he had joined the local Committee.

The Committees had shown him that he could be free, that he could live without fear of a master. All he had to do was kill for it. They trained him for this mission and it was an imporant one. Military Base Dominion was a major communications hub for the military, heavily guarded and shielded from outsideattack, the solders however did not supect him. After all the last slave revolt had been decades ago and the slaves still cowarded at the thought. Cowarded where the masters could see...

He was carrying a bomb inside his large knapsack, a well made one. It had to be an off world machine. He wondered who made it? One of the alien specis he heard stories and fables about? A free nation? The U.S.A of Adams or the U.P of Mattews, the writers who ideas were from time to time read aloud?

It didn't matter. As long as it worked... Jordan stole into the main building, it had all the communication gear and antenanias sticking out of the roof, so it had to be important.

Inside the building he walked down the servents hall, has if he was bringing his master lunch like a good boy. He turned into a cleaning supply closet and shut the door behind him. It was a large closet, holding several dozen brooms and mops, has well has buckets and other various cleaning tools. No Officer would even deign to peek inside and most Freemen enlisted wouldn't even go through a servents hall. He placed the bomb in the back of the room and hit the timer button. He had 15 minutes to escape.

It was hard not to run, but they covered that in training. If he ran, he would be chased. If he was chased he would be caught. He did not want to be caught.

Once he was out of sight, in a lightly wooded area, he did run. Breaking out into a sprint to get out of the blast radius. He had been told to get has far away has possible, since he couldn't figure out meters or feet. He reached the fence in 14 minutes. There was a gap and about 4 strides away a hole had been dug. He leapt into the deep hole, camlouge by nearby trees and some small device. He barely made it.


Major Franks nodded at the screen. The operations had went well. Of the 8 bases targeted, 6 had been blown. Of the 2 failures, both had sudiced before capture. He had had doubts, the bombs were non UP in make, being bought thurough 3rd parties. He turned off the computers, in a minute his group would show up to recieve their rifles and their orders. The opposing military was more than half blind and half deaf. The odds looked good. Major Franks nodded, pleased.

[Alyrium Denryle]

Pirate Base World

Onboard the Pirate ruiser Deathscythe alarm klaxons blared

"Captain, jumppoints frming on multiple vectors!!!!"

"Oh hell! Shields up, general quarters!!!"

In the space surrounding the port world ships powered up weapons and brought shields online. There was no use in escaping, they could not outrun the fleet that floated before it.

"This is Admiral Gnathus of the Draconis Republic. You are all under arrest for acts of piracy and your home port is to be annexed by the Republic. You have 5 min to surrendur your ships, any at3tempt to escape will be met with deadly force. An resistance will be met with deadly force."

Republic FOrces

First Fleet (Admiral Elapis Gnathus)
VCD: Monolith (Commodore Vleshtari)
VCD: Harbinger(Commodore Lutris)
VCD: DeathBringer (Commodore Xanitar)
DCC: Driad
DCC: Gibberling
DCC: Prosoph
DCC: Dereleth
DCC: Starkiller
DCC: Event Horizon
DCC: World Eater
DCC: Firestorm
ECC: Disgourger
ECC: Devourer
ECC: LightBearer
ECC: Starfire
30 Missile destroyers
40 fast destroyers

Second Fleet(Admiral Emidus)
VCD: Stonewall
VCD: DiamondShield
VCD TerrorLord
DCC: WorldEater
DCC: Hullcrusher
DCC: Broadside
DCC: Acheron
DCC: Fangstrike
DCC: DeathsHead
DCC: DoomClaw
DCC: Perfect Storm
ECC: Soulsmasher
ECC: Vengeance
ECC: Oblivion
ECC: Omnipotence.
30 Missile destroyers
40 fast destroyers

Pirate forces

2 Dreadnoughts
8 cruisers
20 frigates
80 destroyers.

[consequences]

"Tea would be most appreciated, Green Tea by preference." he said, returning the bow before taking a seat.

Rosenburg like any good UP citizen had scouted out his guest's prefered refreshments before hand. He gave Lord McSweeney time to sample his tea and seat himself comfortably.
"Lord McSweeney, thank you for seeing me. As you know the United Protectrates has suffered many cival wars in it's past. Because of these wars, laws have been made. Some of these laws deal with the Lord Protector and his heirs. The creation of his heirs, point of fact. In short the Protector must marry and be faithful to the spouse and the spouse in question must be faithful has well. But I wonder from the point. Due to the commonality of interest between our powers and the desire for closer ties, we would ask that a spouse be found for the Lord Protector from amoung your noblity. Is this possible?"

"One moment please" Nakatiro McSweeney pulled out his mini-comp, and engaged its uplink to the non-classified computers at the Shi Embassy. most of a minute was spent inputting search parameters and instructions, once this was done uploading the information only took a few seconds.
"Here is a list of available noblewomen potentially interested in a monagamous relationship. Depending upon the parameters to be applied, they can be sorted by clan rank, personality type, prior marital status, age, personal interests, or a number of other factors. I can say with confidence that my government would be most willing to pursue this course of action, but one condition that will certainly need to be met is for your Protector's basic genetic pattern to be viewed by a medical expert that we trust. We have found in the past that certain human descendant groups are extremely incompatible with our own." He then let a small smile escape, "Of course, as long as he isn't a half-vampire or something similar, its really nothing more than a formality."

[Stormbringer]

[Darkness Fleet]

There would be no evading the exchange to come. It was inevitable and they knew the enemy was coming. All that was left to do was sell their lives as dearly as possible, defiant unto death.

"Let none be taken alive."

The ships of the fleet simply continued to break off, at least they would give them a chase.


(OCC: Now's the chance)